An investigation of projectile motion using basic classroom experiments and mathematical concepts

Abstract

This study investigated projectile motion through simple classroom experiments and mathematical analysis to examine how closely experimental measurements of horizontal range, maximum height, and time of flight agree with theoretical predictions. Experimental trials launched a ping-pong ball at 30°, 45°, and 60° using a rubber-band launcher. Measurements (three trials per angle) recorded range, peak height, and flight time and were averaged for analysis. Theoretical values were computed with standard projectile equations and compared to experimental averages. Percentage errors were generally small (≤5.21%), showing close agreement between observations and model predictions. Results show the 45° launch produced the greatest horizontal range while the 60° launch produced the highest maximum height and longest time aloft, illustrating the independence of horizontal and vertical motion and the role of launch angle. Small discrepancies were attributed to air resistance, launcher variability, and measurement limitations. The study concludes that low-cost classroom experiments effectively reinforce mathematical and physical concepts of projectile motion and recommends more precise instruments and expanded trials for future work.